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The Arizona Diamondbacks are making an attempt at stopping the bleeding. Arizona has dropped five straight and 8 of their last 10 and needed to get a long-term fix. They may have found it in a huge trade for star Detroit Tigers outfielder, J.D. Martzinez.
Per reports, the Diamondbacks completed a trade to land the 29-year old slugger on Tuesday afternoon, effectively landing them the right-handed power hitter they so badly needed:
Source: J.D. Martinez is headed to the Arizona Diamondbacks. First mentioned close by @jonmorosi.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 18, 2017
The move is a mixed bag, as the 53-39 Diamondbacks had hit a wall recently and specifically struggled offensively with 6 or fewer runs scored in every game in the month of July. The arrival of Martinez could be seen as a desperation move, while it’s arguable one high level hitter may not save an offense currently struggling to produce at an elite level.
Immediate Impact
The one caveat here is Martinez’s contract expires after the 2017 MLB season, which could mean this trade ultimately is a lost cause. Arizona is in terrific position to chase down a Wild Card spot, however, and clearly prefers to strike now, rather than let their playoff shot slip away. Landing Martinez doesn’t guarantee anything, but it does solidify Arizona’s outfield and gives them a reliable right-handed power bat that should give their offense a significant boost.
Big Loss For Tigers
Detroit wasn’t going anywhere in 2017 (currently sitting at 42-49 in the AL Central), but this is still an admittance that they won’t be bringing back a fan favorite. The Tigers waited for Martinez to work his way back from a foot injury earlier in the year, only to unload him in this deal. The move virtually cements the Tigers are giving up on the 2017 MLB playoffs, even though they’re still just six games out of first place in a competitive AL Central division.
While this loss could sting initially, it signals a rebuild for Detroit. More big moves could be on the way (Justin Verlander and others could be dealt), while the Tigers could look to push some of the new prospects coming in onto the field.
Playoff Odds
Martinez offers plenty of pop for an Arizona offense that is already among the most prolific in the majors. Martinez especially could provide some serious help against left-handed pitching, as he’s crushed that side of the plate to the tune of a ridiculous .474 batting average and .556 OBP on the year. That could be quite helpful for a D’Backs lineup that has ranked just 20th against southpaws in home runs in 2017 and 29th in batting average.
Again, Martinez can’t save the Diamondbacks all on his own, but this is a smart move for a team that had a specific offensive need. Already blessed with plenty of power and a deep offensive roster, the Diamdonbacks sacrificed some young prospects to give themselves a more complete starting lineup. A more rounded out offense could combine with a stable of top shelf pitchers to get the Diamondbacks back in a good spot.
The D’Backs are currently still where they need to be, as they hold a 0.5 game lead over the rival Rockies and don’t have an obvious threat outside their division. If Martinez can end up being the huge addition they’re hoping he can be, the Diamondbacks should have a terrific shot at getting into the playoffs. From there, Arizona’s interesting +1600 World Series odds at Bovada.
